John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) Terminal 5

Self-check-in kiosks, a skywalk, exclusive rooftop lounges, spas, and even a dog walking arena-JFK Terminal 5 is undoubtedly a one-of-a-kind experience. Travelers should arrive early on purpose to bask in the retro vibe and indulge in an array of delightful amenities.

Here’s everything that one needs to know about John F Kennedy Terminal 5, a.k.a the “blue terminal”, courtesy of JetBlue Airways.

Major Airlines flying from JFK Terminal 5

JFK Terminal 5 Airlines has dedicated waiting areas and help centers for all airlines. Terminal 5 has three major airlines flying for international destinations namely JetBlue, Cape Air, and Aer Lingus.

JFK Terminal 5-A Multiple-Level Operation

Located on the eastern side of the airport building, JFK Terminal 5 operates on multiple levels, which can be baffling for many. Here’s knowing each level better.

• Level 1 is the Baggage Claim where there’s the USO lounge and welcome center right in the middle of the arrivals halls. The arrivals curbside is where one can access all sorts of ground transportation.
• Level 2 is the Arrival Gates for all international flights. After the passengers get off and pass through the processing, they arrive at the main arrivals halls. For all those who’ve booked a stay at the TWA hotel, they can use the connector bridge directly leading to the hotel.
• Level 3 is the Departure Concourse After the passengers go through a security check, they’ll find gates 22-30 on their left. Gates numbered 1-7 are on the right while gates numbered 8-12 and 14-21 respectively are located straight up along the corridor.

Pro tip 1: If one is hungry or in the mood to shop, a few eateries are ahead of the security checkpoint, and retail JFK Airport shops are right after the security checkpoint.

Prop tip 2: If a traveler wants to take the AirTrain, use the escalator from the arrivals JFK terminal 5 section straight up to the Skywalk. From there, one will find moving walkways connecting directly to the AirTrain.

Facilities available at JFK Terminal 5

JFK Terminal 5 houses state-of-the-art facilities adding more smiles to passengers flying in and out of New York. Let’s have a closer look at some of the key offerings.

1. Kids Interactive Play Area

Traveling with kids can be tricky! But thanks to the principal carrier JetBlue Airlines, JFK Terminal 5 has a dedicated interactive play area for kids. Unlike typical play areas, this one takes a different stance with an airplane-themed design leaving a window open for the children to play and learn. This aviation-themed play space can be found near Gate 26.

2. Mamava Lactation Pods

The Mamava Lactation Pods is exclusive to JFK Terminal 5 and a blessing for all traveling mothers. Essentially a nursing room, these rooms are designed with a peaceful vibe and have comfortable sitting benches, electrical outlets for convenience, and lockable doors for privacy (helps during breastfeeding babies). The Mamava Lactation Pods are located near gates 1, 12, and 28.

3. The “Be Relax” Spa

Whether tired from the long hours of sitting on the plane or want to feel rejuvenated between connecting flights, the “Relax Spa” is the place to be. Located right opposite Gate number 6 and 7, the Relax Spa is located at JFK Airport Terminal 5 just after one crosses the security checkpoint. Drop by to enjoy a range of body massages and aromatherapy from Monday to Sunday, between 9 AM -7 PM.

4. Secure Wrap Service

Worried about the Babbage being stolen or tampered with? Head on to the secure wrap service at JFK Terminal 5, where one can find different kinds of wrapping services appropriate for the luggage.

Secure wrap service is located on Level 3 near the check-in counters and operates between 3 AM and 10 PM. Moreover, If a traveler’s luggage is opened during the TSA security screening, one can get it wrapped for free!

5. Woof Top And Rooftop Terrace

Taking pet relief areas to a whole new level, “Woof Top” in JFK Terminal 5 houses a 4000-foot outdoor garden patio. Travelers with pets can come out here for a quick stroll and the place even has seating arrangements for 50 people.

Woof Top has a special corner area designed with artificial grass where the pets can either play or relieve themselves. Besides “WoofTop ” there are two more pet-relief areas in Terminal 5. 

• Right before the security checkpoint beside baggage carousel no. 6, and 
• The outdoors area right across Gate no. 28 (North-end arrival)

JFK Terminal 5 Skywalk

This one’s perhaps one of the most talked about structures located at JFK Terminal 5. Constructed by JetBlue Airways, the JFK Terminal 5 skywalk is the epitome of innovative design and planning, connecting passengers conveniently to multiple transportation options.

The JFK Terminal 5 skywalk connects passengers directly to parking garages, NYC metro, and Parking garages. In Addition, First-timers in New York will also find a bunch of useful travel tips and other info as they step onto the skywalk. 

Other important facilities at JFK Terminal 5 include free wifi, charging stations, medical aids, a USO center, and family restrooms.

Eating Options at the JFK Terminal 5

Travelers looking for places to eat at Terminal 5 JFK will be spoilt for choice. New York is a city known for its diverse culinary treats, and Kennedy Terminal 5 food options mimic the same adding to everyone’s delight. Whether it’s burritos, sushi, or pasta, passengers will never run out of eating options here.

Here’s a list of some of the best recommendations for JFK Airport restaurants and cafes (location-wise).

Shopping at JFK Terminal 5 

Travelers often like to collect souvenirs from the places they visit, and what better place than the airport itself to find one? JFK Terminal 5 has countless retail shops to keep passengers occupied.

From travel accessories to the latest books, quick cosmetics, and showpieces, these retail destinations are fun to check out. 

New York JFK Terminal 5 Lounges

Whether returning from a business flight or traveling to a new destination, JFK Terminal 5 has delightfully designed, relaxing, and comfy JFK airport lounges to drop by. Terminal 5 currently has two exclusive lounges, namely USO Lounge and JetBlue Rooftop and Wooftop Terrace.

However, travelers must note that these lounges by default are restrictive, which means access is only provided to those with valid credentials. Find out how one Kennedy Airport terminal 5 lounges differs from the other in terms of prerequisites.

• USO Lounge: Access available to active duty, reserve, and guard military members and their families
• JetBlue Rooftop and Wooftop Terrace: Unrestricted access to all Terminal 5 passengers, where one can walk their pets. However, during the winter months, walking the terrace could be a rather chilly experience.

It’s good to know that travelers can access sleep pods in Terminal 5 located in the airside area. The charges are $35 for the first 6 hours, and then an additional $10 every hour. 

Transportation Options at JFK Terminal 5 

Taxis, shuttles, buses, limos- name a transport, and JFK terminal 5 has it. For reservations, travelers are advised to get in touch with the ground transportation information desk. Here are some of the best transportation options for passengers. 

1. Kiss ‘n’ fly

For travelers who want to skip the airport traffic and parking costs, they can be picked up and dropped
At the “Kiss ‘n’ fly” lot at the Lefferts Boulevard exit right off the Van Wyck Expressway. Once dropped, they are free to take the AirTrain for another free ride to any terminal of their choice. 

2. LIRR (Long Island Rail Road)

The Long Island Rail Road is another excellent transport option to New York JFK Terminal 5. A passenger needs to board the LIRR train from New York City and Long Island straight to Jamaica station. From there, they can board the Air Train directly to Terminal 5 at just $8.25 per passenger.

Alternatively, one can also take the E, J, or Z subway lines and reach the Sutphin-Archer Avenue station or the A subway line that connects to Howard Beach station.

Pro tip: Don’t fall for the tempting transport offers from independent solicitors prying around the terminal. These are unlicensed and uninsured service providers and will never guarantee the safety of passengers and their luggage.

JFK Terminal 5 Parking

JFK International is undoubtedly one of the major airports in New York accommodating 70+ airlines. The John F Kennedy Terminal 5 has 24/7 short-term parking garages. At the outset, there are three kinds of parking available, namely orange, green, and red ($35 per day).

However, the parking garages close to Terminals 4 and 5 are blue and yellow garages where the rates are $39 a day. One is advised to check real-time availability for JFK Terminal 5 parking from the official website. Moreover, one can also pre-book a parking spot by visiting the link above. 

JFK Lost and Found Terminal 5

JFK Terminal 5 addressed all lost and found inquiries at are 24/7. Passengers are requested to connect directly with the JFK Police Desk by calling 718-244-4225.

JFK Airport Terminal 5 Map

It’s only normal to be lost for directions for a passenger at the John F. Kennedy Airport. An easy-to-follow Terminal 5 JFK Airport map to easily figure out important locations, parking, restrooms, entry-exit points, and everything else.

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